An illegal alien from Venezuela and her accomplice have been arrested in the tragic jet ski hit-and-run death of an 18-year-old Air Force recruit in Texas.
The senseless killing has sparked outrage after authorities revealed both suspects were in the country illegally when they fled the scene.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the arrest of Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez and an unidentified male accomplice following a standoff with police at their Dallas-area home.
The pair struck Ava Moore with a jet ski while she was kayaking on Grapevine Lake during Memorial Day weekend, then fled without providing aid.
The arrest involved impressive collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies.
These included Dallas and Grapevine police, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Authorities used drones for surveillance during the operation, which led to the capture of the suspects.
Moore had recently completed her first year at the Air Force Preparatory School and was set to begin basic military training.
A star basketball player and recent high school graduate, her promising future was cut short by individuals who should not have been in the country in the first place.
According to reports, Moore suffered severe head trauma from the collision and was pronounced dead at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center.
After striking Moore, the suspects committed another hit-and-run by striking a vehicle as they fled the scene, adding to their crimes.
A second woman was on the jet ski during the fatal incident but remained at the scene after the collision.
Police distributed photos of Gonzalez, which led to the identification and arrest of both suspects who had attempted to evade justice.
The tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about border security and the dangers posed by unchecked illegal immigration.
“My heart breaks for Ava’s family and friends, and my prayers are with them as they face this tragedy,” Paxton said.
“My office will continue to work with local, state, and national law enforcement partners to secure justice for Ava,” he added.
A GoFundMe page set up to help with funeral costs has raised over $31,000, demonstrating the community’s support for the Moore family during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, law enforcement officials have emphasized their commitment to safety and bringing those responsible for this tragedy to justice.
